Thank God It's Toby: Highlights

Julie Rogers Pomilia is the granddaughter of the iconic and legendary Western movie and TV stars, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. In her groundbreaking book, "Your Heroes, My Grandparents," Julie offers a unique and personal perspective on the lives of her famous grandparents, who were known as the "Royal Western Couple." Growing up during the peak of their popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, Julie witnessed firsthand the love and acceptance her grandparents embodied as they adopted five children from different backgrounds and cultures.

As the youngest daughter of Dale Evans' only biological son, Julie shares heartfelt stories about living with her famous grandparents and how they embraced the concept of a blended family. In a time when the idea of adoption was not widely discussed, Roy and Dale stood out as trailblazers, creating a diverse and loving household. Their brood of children, often seen in matching Western outfits, became a symbol of their unconventional but inclusive family.

Throughout the book, Julie delves into various topics and anecdotes, shedding light on the challenges and pressures her grandparents faced in the entertainment industry. She recounts how Hollywood demanded a facade of perfection, revealing the lengths her grandfather went to meet the industry's standards, including using eyedrops to enhance his appearance. Despite the demands, Roy and Dale always made time for their family, prioritizing birthdays, school plays, and special events. They showed that family was everything, regardless of their fame and commitments.

Julie also uncovers the lesser-known aspects of her grandmother's life, sharing Dale's difficult journey to fame, which included early marriages, divorces, and intense struggles. But Dale's indomitable spirit and perseverance led her to become an iconic figure in her own right. Meanwhile, Julie recalls her own realization of her grandparents' fame when she saw her grandpa's photo on the cover of a Weekly Scholastic Reader in second grade, assuming it was a normal occurrence for everyone.

The book highlights the genuine and unassuming nature of Roy and Dale. Julie reveals how her grandma, the songwriter behind "Happy Trails," never made a big deal out of her accomplishments, and her grandpa, a bashful country boy, was hard to truly know. But their ordinary lives were filled with extraordinary experiences and an unbreakable bond that endured through personal tragedies, including the loss of three of their own children.

Julie shares delightful stories of the family's occasional appearances on television, from Billy Graham Crusades to salad dressing commercials and the Jonathan Winters Christmas Show. Each chapter presents a stand-alone story, offering readers an intimate, humorous, and tender glimpse into the lives of these beloved American heroes.

"Your Heroes, My Grandparents" is a captivating memoir that transports readers through Julie Rogers Pomilia's cherished memories, spanning from her earliest recollections to the time of her grandparents' passing. With warmth and positivity, Julie invites readers to connect with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, demonstrating why they remain iconic figures who left an indelible mark on American history.

Highlights from Toby Gribben's Friday afternoon show on Shout Radio. Featuring chat with top showbiz guests.